There’s a very basic message for anyone suffering from hearing loss: Use hearing aids.
Why? A recent study revealed that people were less likely to develop health issues such as anxiety, dementia, depression, and dangerous falls if they began wearing hearing aids within three years of being diagnosed with hearing impairment. While these health problems aren’t proven to be prevented by hearing aids, fewer health issues have been connected to their use. The study reveals that seniors who wore hearing aids had a 13% less likely chance of having a hazardous fall. They also had an 18% less likely chance of developing dementia and an 11% less likelihood of developing anxiety and depression.
Refrain From Making Excuses
It’s worthwhile to keep in mind that when it comes to your health, these numbers may seem low but they’re still considerable. Prior research has shown a correlation between hearing loss and other serious health problems, but this study verified it’s an ongoing, worsening problem. But many individuals who have hearing loss don’t have it treated or ever use hearing aids. Why not? Not having the correct insurance to cover some of the expenses is a common issue. And the cost may still be too high even for those who have insurance.
Some individuals actually go in and get fitted but when they bring their hearing aid home, it seems like too much trouble to use them, so they don’t. Most individuals simply turn up the volume to solve the dilemma and don’t think about hearing loss as much of an issue.
Louder volume on the TV won’t solve the issue, though, and while hearing loss may seem to be an inevitable part of getting older, there is much more to it.
The Importance of Healthy Hearing
Hearing is obviously a large part of communication. Without the ability to communicate correctly, you may not comprehend questions asked by your doctors or family members. As a result, you might not be able to convey your symptoms and concerns.
Other concerns linked to a lack of effective communication are less apparent. If attempting to have phone conversations leaves you feeling frustrated and embarrassed, you might start to lose touch with people in your support system. And obviously, your chance of developing dementia is higher if your brain doesn’t receive enough stimulation which happens when you can’t hear.
Hearing Aid Advantages
Getting a hearing aid isn’t all about severe, long-term worries. Wearing a hearing aid will immediately enhance your quality of life, as well as your long-term outlook. If you can hear and take part in conversations, it lowers your chances of feeling isolated and allows you to partake more fully in your social life. You will minimize your anxiety even further when you are capable of precisely communicating your health concerns with your doctor and understanding his advice for treatment.
Is it time to look into a hearing aid? If you have any of the following symptoms, the answer is yes:
- Background noise makes it tough to hear when someone is talking to you
- Being so afraid you won’t be able to follow conversations, you stay away from social situations
- Watching TV at very high volume
- Frequently needing people to repeat themselves
These and possibly other symptoms might be an indication that it’s time to consider getting a hearing aid. If any of them sound familiar, ask us if a hearing aid may be right for you.